Armed forces and veterans

There are many organisations that support members of the armed forces, veterans, reservists, and their families. If you or a family member has served in the armed forces for any amount of time you can access these various services and charities for support in areas such as health, education and housing. These are some of the services available, you can also find a full list on the Livewell Southend site.

Veterans' Gateway

Veterans' Gateway is for any ex-service personnel and their families looking for advice or support - whatever they're dealing with. The service is available 24hrs a day, find out more on the Veterans' Gateway website

Forcesline

A free, independent helpline, that’s outside the chain of command for the Armed Forces and their families. We’ll listen and help get you back on track. Call 0800 731 4880, weekdays from 9am to 5.30pm. Or get in touch online on the ssafa website.

We are proud to support those serving in the Armed Forces, ex-service personnel, their families and widow(er)s in our communities.

Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant

One way we show our support is by being part of the Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant.

The aims of the covenant include:

  • raising public awareness of issues affecting the armed forces community and encouraging local communities to support the Armed Forces communities
  • reducing any disadvantages experienced by armed forces personnel as a result of their service
  • recognising the local and national role of the armed forces community
  • remembering the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces community and their families
  • encouraging activities which help to integrate the Armed Forces Community into local life
  • encouraging the Armed Forces Community to help and support the wider community

The Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant was formally signed in November 2012. It is one of the largest-ever Armed Forces covenant pledges made by the public, private and voluntary sectors including the leaders of Essex County Council, Essex's city, borough and district councils, the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, representatives of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, Essex Police, Essex Fire Service, the NHS, the business community and Armed Forces charities.

In 2024 we will be launching the Southend Armed Forces Covenant. Further details to follow in due course.

The Essex Civilian Military Partnership Board

Following the historic signing of the Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant pledge by public, private and voluntary sectors, a Civilian Military Partnership Board has been established to further cement the commitment made to support and improve the lives of local Armed Forces personnel and their families. The Partnership of public, private, voluntary sector members will be looking at the Essex-wide activities relating to the Armed Forces and will oversee progress of joint civilian and military community projects to ensure that pledges outlined in the Covenant are met.

The Civilian Military Partnership Board is currently engaged in a comprehensive programme of work that will focus on:

  • housing
  • health and wellbeing
  • education
  • employment and skills
  • promoting community integration

Contact switchboard and out of hours

Telephone: 01702 215000

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